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Laurent Chardard Paralympics 2024

Known as "Baby Shark," the athlete and manager has made significant strides in Para swimming since his debut for France in 2018. Born in Saint-Pierre, Reunion, he moved to mainland France in 2009 to study engineering. He took up Para swimming in 2017 after losing an arm and a leg, inspired by wheelchair rugby at the 2016 Paralympic Games.

Para Swimming
France
Birth Date: Aug 30, 1995
Laurent Chardard profile image
Residence: France
Social Media: Facebook Instagram
Paralympic Experience: 2020, 2024

Laurent Chardard Paralympic Medals

Paralympic Medals

0
Gold
0
Silver
2
Bronze
2
Total

2024 Medals

0
Gold
0
Silver
2
Bronze
2
Total

Laurent Chardard Paralympic Milestones

Season Event Rank
2020 50m Butterfly - S6 4
2020 100m Backstroke - S6 6
2020 100m Freestyle - S6 7

Laurent Chardard Biography

He was born in Saint-Pierre, Reunion, a French overseas territory near Madagascar. In 2009, he relocated to mainland France to pursue engineering at the Institute of Technology [IUT] of Bayonne and the Basque Country. He later studied for a master's degree in mechanics and energetics at the University of Bordeaux.

Sporting Journey

Before his accident, he was involved in bodyboarding from childhood. After his accident, he started Para swimming to overcome his impairment and return to bodyboarding. He said, "I continued doing sport to get myself back on my feet. I also realised that in order to be able to bodyboard again, I had to learn how to swim well."

Achievements and Awards

In 2021, he received the city medal of La Teste-de-Buch and the medal of the French National Assembly. These accolades highlight his contributions and achievements in sports and beyond.

Hobbies and Interests

Apart from swimming, he enjoys playing underwater rugby, surfing, bodyboarding, skateboarding, and snowboarding. His passion for these activities remains strong despite his physical challenges.

Homemade Prosthetic

With an engineering background, he developed his own prosthetic arm a month after his accident. This prosthetic helps him grab the board for bodyboarding and perform everyday tasks like carrying a bag or holding a sheet of paper. "It looks a bit home-made, but to be able to get out in the water, it's a really big part of my life," he said.

Rescue Mission

In 2015, during university holidays in Reunion, he was involved in an underwater rescue. A man had lost consciousness after jumping into deep water from a height of over 20 metres. He and a friend dived in to save him. The victim was evacuated by helicopter and recovered. This heroic act was featured on French national news.

Future Ambitions

Looking ahead, he aims to compete at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris. His philosophy is simple yet powerful: "Do what you like the most and be persistent." This mindset continues to drive him towards achieving his goals.

His journey from Reunion to mainland France, overcoming physical challenges, and excelling in sports is truly inspiring. As he prepares for future competitions, his story serves as a testament to resilience and determination.

Laurent Chardard FAQs on Paralympics

  • Is Laurent Chardard qualified for the Paris 2024 Paralympics?
    Yes, Laurent Chardard is competing in the Para Swimming event at the Paris 2024 Paralympics.
  • Who is Laurent Chardard?

    Known as "Baby Shark," the athlete and manager has made significant strides in Para swimming since his debut for France in 2018. Born in Saint-Pierre, Reunion, he moved to mainland France in 2009 to study engineering. He took up Para swimming in 2017 after losing an arm and a leg, inspired by wheelchair rugby at the 2016 Paralympic Games.

  • Which game does Laurent Chardard play?
    Laurent Chardard, a famous Para Swimming from France, proudly competes for the country in international Para Swimming events.
  • In which city Laurent Chardard was born?
    Laurent Chardard was born on August 30, 1995 in , France.
  • How many Paralympic medals has Laurent Chardard won in Para Swimming?
    Laurent Chardard won the bronze medal in the Para Swimming events.
  • How many Paralympic medals has Laurent Chardard won throughout his Para Swimming career?
    Laurent Chardard has won 2 Paralympic medal in Para Swimming throughout his career.
  • When did Laurent Chardard first compete in the Paralympics?
    He represented France at the Paralympics.
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